Starkey Hearing Foundation
Delta Zeta and Starkey Hearing Foundation have a long-standing partnership dedicated to providing hearing healthcare services to people worldwide.
In 2006, Delta Zeta's National Convention voted to make Starkey Hearing Foundation a philanthropic partner. Since then, Delta Zeta has raised more than $7.6 million for Starkey in support of advancing hearing health globally. Starkey Hearing Foundation was designated as one of our national philanthropy partners in 2015 and is now recognized as our global philanthropy partner.
Through our fundraising, Starkey Hearing Foundation has also:
- Built 70 hearing-focused programs around the world
- Created the AfterCare program for the continued support of impacted families
- Trained and educated governments on hearing, hearing loss and hearing aids
- Initiated seven national hearing healthcare plans
- Established Starkey Hearing Institutes in Lusaka, Zambia, Manilla, Philippines and San Salvador, El Salvador.
The Starkey Hearing Institute
The Starkey Hearing Institute (SHI), part of the Starkey Hearing Foundation, is dedicated to training hearing healthcare professionals through a nine-month program. Students learn the WFA Community-Based Hearing Healthcare model, complete public health training, learn about primary ear and hearing care and graduate with their Hearing Instrument Specialist License.
SHI currently operates in three countries — Zambia, the Philippines and El Salvador — and has graduated over 200 students from more than 20 nations. Each graduate returns to their home country equipped to establish or enhance hearing healthcare services within their local health systems.
Delta Zeta proudly supports SHI by funding its expansion, providing tuition assistance and supplying educational resources that help deliver critical hearing services worldwide. At SHI Zambia, Delta Zeta also funded the creation of a recreation center known as the Delta Zeta House. Adorned with our Creed, it offers a safe, welcoming space for students to study, relax and build community.
Beyond The Fundraising
In addition to financial support, Delta Zeta members also volunteer their time to support Starkey's mission. Dozens of our sisters have traveled on international mission trips to help distribute hearing aids and provide hearing-related healthcare services. They have also volunteered at local Starkey events and fundraisers throughout the country.
- Since 2015, more than 75 Delta Zetas have attended a mission with the Starkey Hearing Foundation.
- Delta Zeta women have volunteered in 15 countries around the world.
The partnership between Delta Zeta and Starkey Hearing Foundation is a powerful example of how our members can make a collective impact globally.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
Delta Zeta is thrilled to offer all members the chance to join an international hearing mission with our friends at the Starkey Hearing Foundation! This once in a lifetime opportunity allows you to make a global impact, and we’ve got two exciting ways to get you there:
Option 1: Personal Fundraising
Want to go solo? You’ve got this!
Create your own personal philanthropy page and raise $7,500 (starting July 1, 2025). Once you’ve hit your goal and filled out the International Hearing Mission Form, you’ll receive an invitation to join the mission of your choice!
Flights are on you, but Delta Zeta and Starkey cover all other major expenses—hotel rooms, group meals, local transportation and even fun excursions!
Option 2: Chapter Fundraising
Want to go as a chapter representative?
Chapters that raise $75,000 (starting July 1, 2025) and complete the International Hearing Mission Form will get to select one lucky member to represent them on an international hearing mission of their choice!
Flights are covered by the chapter or selected member, and Delta Zeta and Starkey covers all other major expenses – just like above!
Mission Destinations
Check out a few of the annual missions you could be part of:
- Manila, Philippines – May
- Includes the Starkey Hearing Institute Graduation Ceremony
- San Salvador, El Salvador – November
- Includes the Starkey Hearing Institute Graduation Ceremony
- Lusaka, Zambia – December
- Includes the Starkey Hearing Institute Graduation Ceremony
For answers to common questions, visit our Frequently Asked Questions document. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please contact Abbie Rees, Director of Community Relations and Philanthropy, at [email protected].
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved with Delta Zeta and the Starkey Hearing Foundation. You can:
- Make a donation.
- Volunteer your time at a local Starkey event or fundraiser.
- Spread the word about Delta Zeta and Starkey Hearing Foundation and encourage others to get involved.
- Send encouragement letters to Starkey Hearing Institute students (Attn: Kirk Richards, Starkey Hearing Foundation, PO Box 41514 Minneapolis, MN 55441)
Every little bit helps. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of people with hearing loss.
For more information about Starkey Hearing Foundation, please visit their official website.